Multistereo Camera Apparatus with Adjustable Focal Length
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mono-based forward camera systems and stereo camera systems face challenges in accurately measuring distances, particularly over long distances, while driving at high speeds, due to limitations in focal length and baseline adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A multistereo camera apparatus comprising a first camera with a fixed focal length, a second camera with a different focal length, and a third camera with an adjustable focal length, which operates in pairs with the first and second cameras to measure distances of varying lengths by adjusting its focal length and baseline positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed focal length is used in a stereo camera system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision for both short and long distances simultaneously deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the focal length adjustable rather than fixed. The third camera is equipped with a focal length adjustment mechanism that allows it to change its focal length dynamically. This enables the system to adapt to different measurement requirements (short vs. long distances) while maintaining relatively simple device architecture, thus resolving the contradiction between device complexity and measurement precision.
2Device complexity
If a general forward-facing camera with narrow angle is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to measure various distances and angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by creating a multistereo camera system where three cameras with different focal lengths work together. Each camera serves specific functions: the first camera (shortest focal length) handles wide-angle and short-distance measurement, the second camera (intermediate focal length) handles medium-distance measurement, and the third camera (longest focal length) handles long-distance measurement. This multi-functional configuration enables the system to adapt to various measurement scenarios while maintaining manageable device complexity.
3Device complexity
If a mono-based forward camera system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision for long distances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the segmentation principle by dividing the distance measurement function into three separate camera systems, each optimized for specific distance ranges. Instead of using a single mono-based camera or a single stereo camera system, the invention segments the measurement task across three cameras with different focal lengths. This segmentation enables each camera to specialize in its optimal range, improving overall measurement precision for both short and long distances while keeping individual camera components relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A multistereo camera apparatus includes a first camera having a first focal length, a second camera having a second focal length different from the first focal length, and a third camera having an adjustable third focal length, wherein the third camera operates in a pair with the first camera to measure a first distance, or in a pair with the second camera to measure a second distance different from the first distance.